Russia Launches Record 267 Drones on Ukraine Overnight

Kyiv, Ukraine, February 23, 2025 (BSS/AFP) – In what has been described as the largest drone assault since the start of the war, Russia launched 267 drones across Ukraine overnight, the Ukrainian air force reported on Sunday.

Air force spokesman Yuriy Ignat confirmed that the attack, which took place between Saturday and Sunday, set a new record for a single drone offensive since Russia’s full-scale invasion began nearly three years ago in February 2022.

Of the 267 drones deployed, Ukrainian air defense systems managed to intercept 138, while 119 were reported as “lost” without causing damage, according to Ignat’s statement.

An Escalating Aerial Threat

The use of drones has become a key tactic in Russia’s ongoing military operations against Ukraine, with both sides increasingly relying on unmanned aerial systems for reconnaissance, strikes, and sabotage missions. The latest attack signals a continued escalation in aerial warfare, as Ukraine struggles to defend its skies against an overwhelming number of incoming threats.

While Ukrainian forces successfully intercepted over half of the drones, the sheer volume of attacks poses a significant challenge to the country’s air defense systems, which have been heavily reliant on Western-supplied missile batteries and radar technology.

Growing Pressure on Ukraine’s Air Defenses

Ukraine has been urging its Western allies for additional air defense support, particularly advanced systems such as the Patriot missile system and more interceptor drones. While military aid has helped Ukraine counter Russian missile and drone strikes, the increasing frequency and scale of these attacks continue to stretch its resources.

This latest drone offensive comes at a time when Ukraine is bracing for a renewed Russian offensive in key strategic regions, including the eastern and southern fronts. With infrastructure and energy facilities often targeted in such attacks, the country remains on high alert.

As the war approaches its third anniversary, the conflict shows no signs of de-escalation, with both sides adapting their strategies in an ongoing battle for control of Ukraine’s airspace and territory.